Subversive Spirituality Theme for 2019-2010: Pursuing the Beloved Community

We are all too aware of how divided our world feels right now, and of the ways that many of our communities are experiencing conflict and collective trauma. How can we best respond to these challenges? Through four lunch retreats for staff and faculty, this year's Subversive Spirituality series will explore how we might address this question and work toward building more inclusive and compassionate communities. For vision and inspiration, we will consider Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s concept of the “Beloved Community,” which was central to his life and work. In our conversations, we will reflect on what it means to regard one another as being created in the image of God, a biblical concept that is explicitly mentioned in the St. Edward’s mission statement.

Our first session will provide a foundation for our year’s theme, providing an opportunity to consider the challenges and promises of community today and to consider Dr. King’s image of the Beloved Community.